Title: Raiders and Josh Jacobs Close to Contract Extension Agreement, Future Negotiations Possible
Despite failing to reach a contract extension agreement by the deadline, the Las Vegas Raiders and star running back Josh Jacobs were said to be much closer to a deal than initially assumed. Sources close to the negotiations revealed that considerable progress had been made in the closing hours leading up to the deadline.
According to Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Journal-Review, talks between the two parties were intense and productive. The negotiations provided a starting point and a framework for future discussions, setting the stage for potential contract talks in 2024.
In a tweet, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that Jacobs was physically present at the Raiders facility, prepared to sign an extension. However, since Jacobs has not yet signed his franchise tag, he will not face fines for missing practices. There are concerns that he may not arrive on time for training camp and could potentially sit out regular-season games to protect his market value for future contract negotiations.
Despite this uncertainty, there is still optimism that Jacobs will remain with the Raiders long term. During negotiations, the two sides were zeroing in on a final number that could satisfy both parties’ interests. Jacobs himself took to Twitter to clarify his intentions, stating that he was not seeking to “reset the market,” but rather looking for security in his next contract.
Speculations have arisen about the specific terms Jacobs was aiming for, with comparisons drawn to the contracts of elite running backs such as Derrick Henry and Nick Chubb. However, Jacobs faces a more difficult situation compared to counterparts like Saquon Barkley, as he has earned considerably less in his career thus far.
While Jacobs may be giving up substantial earnings if he decides to sit out games, he can find solace in the fact that he is still due to earn a guaranteed salary of $10 million in 2023. This provides some reassurance amidst the uncertainty surrounding his future contract negotiations.
As fans eagerly await further developments, the failed extension agreement has shed light on the close proximity of both sides’ positions. The progress made during negotiations indicates a willingness from both parties to work towards a mutually beneficial agreement, highlighting the potential for a fruitful resolution in the future.
As the Raiders and Jacobs continue their relationship, the focus shifts to the 2024 negotiations, where both parties hope to find common ground and secure a long-term future together.
